Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training is defined as authorization for “temporary employment authorization directly related to the field of study.” OPT employment authorization is granted for 12 months typically after completion of degree requirements. A student can apply for OPT up to 90 days prior to the program end date and up to 60 days after the program end date. Though it is possible to file the I-765 form (OPT) after graduation we do not recommend doing so as the USCIS processing times vary and you may lose some of your 12-month employment authorization.

Health Insurance for International Students

If you are an F-1 student or J-1 visiting scholar and your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 was issued by the University of Michigan-Flint, you must have health insurance that meets University of Michigan requirements for yourself and any accompanying F-2 or J-2 dependents during the entire time you are a F-1 or J-1 student or scholar at the University of Michigan-Flint. Please attend the Health Insurance workshop for more information.

Scholarship

This workshop will focus on the scholarship essay for the UM-Flint scholarship application. Your scholarship essay is a very important part of your application since the selection committee is able to see you as a person more than your GPA or major. A well-written essay allows you to single yourself out from the other scholarship applicants.

Income Tax Information (F1 Students)

This workshop is designed for F-1 students who are non-residents for tax purposes. This workshop will NOT offer assistance with individual tax return forms, but will provide background information that will be helpful as you prepare your tax forms either by hand or using a tax software.

Job Search Strategies

This workshop is co-sponsored by the Academic Advising and Career Center. Learn about job search strategies, how to build your resume and cover letter, interview preparation and how to sell yourself as an international student on the job market. Other topics will include cross-cultural issues, networking and ways to identify appropriate opportunities.

Reduced Course Load

This workshop provides information about reducing a course load below full-time enrollment while maintaining F-1 or J-1 legal status. In order to maintain legal status F-1 and J-1 students and scholars must have permission from the International Center before dropping below full-time enrollment. All F-1 or J-1 students who plan to request this permission must attend a Reduced Course Load workshop.

Study Skills/Academic Success

This study skills workshop offer suggestions for a better understanding of general college study strategies such as: study groups, study habits, time scheduling, study tips, and campus resources.

Education Abroad Information Session

If you are unsure about which study abroad program is right for you or if you are interested in study abroad, but you just don't know where to start, please plan to attend a general information meeting. Topics covered will include types of study abroad, how to find the right program, meeting your academic needs, funding options, and more. No appointment is necessary, just show up. Bring a friend if you'd like.

Cultural Adjustment

This workshop will cover an introduction to American life, the American perspective on time, status and hierarchy, regional differences, stages of cultural adjustment, and tips to ease cultural adjustment.

Travel Signature Day

Going to travel over the break? Make sure your I-20 is still valid and get it signed this day. No appointment necessary, just walk in.